Battle for 16th slot
The stage is set for 2016 TNM Super League play-offs as Airborne Rangers and Wizards FC face-off Friday in the opening game at Civo Stadium in Lilongwe.
The play-offs involve three teams that were relegated from the top-flight league last season, including Dedza Young Soccer.
Airborne will play Dedza in the second play-off on Saturday, whereas Wizards meet Dedza at the same venue on Sunday.
The competition is expected to be stiff as all the teams would like to prove a point that they deserve to play in the Super League next season.
In Friday’s fixture, Wizards should, despite losing talented players, not be underrated as they have enough quality to withstand the heat.
With their trademark short-passing football, Airborne must exercise caution when playing against the Peter Mponda boys.
Wizards are also full of confidence having beaten Be Forward Wanderers 2-1 in a strength-testing match on Sunday at Kamuzu Stadium.
Wizards technical director, Mponda, was on thursday brimming with confidence of retaining their Super League status.
“We are ready for the games and the team is in shape. This is our second chance and we will not let it go without a fight,” Mponda said.
In the ongoing transfer window, Wizards have sold L e v i son Maganizo and Brighton Munthali to Silver Strikers, whereas Enerst Tambe and Rafik Namwera joined Wanderers.
On the other hand, Airborne have enough experience to pose a serious threat to other teams.
Airborne coach, Kondwani Gawani, said his charges are, despite undergoing military training, geared up for the games.
“Every game is like a final to us. We know Wizards play good football. We want to start the play-offs with a victory to increase our chances,” Gawani said.
The overall winner of the play-offs will automatically retain Super League status to increase the number of teams to 16.
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